As a woman over 40, life is a beautiful tapestry woven with diverse experiences and responsibilities. With a myriad of roles to play, it becomes crucial to navigate through the complexities of life with intention rather than rigid goals. The younger me felt it was necessary to have unalterable goals. I thought this rigid structure would keep me accountable and on track. I now realize having a healthy and flexible mindset is far more productive, empowering, and compassionate. Let’s delve into the transformative power of setting intentions, the importance of establishing healthy boundaries, and how embracing a shift in mindset can lead to a more fulfilling life for women over 40.
- Create Alone Time: Embracing Solitude for Self-Discovery
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, carving out alone time is essential for self-reflection and personal growth. Use this time to reconnect with your thoughts, desires, and aspirations. Alone time provides the space needed to set meaningful intentions for the coming year. Alone time for me could be as simple as parking the car and offering a prayer for comfort and strength or listening to a podcast or meditation video with noise-cancellation earbuds.
- Count Your Blessings: Cultivating Gratitude
Acknowledging the positives in your life fosters a mindset of abundance. Counting your blessings daily helps shift focus from what’s lacking to what’s already present. This practice can contribute to a more optimistic outlook and set the tone for intentional living. I find great peace in acknowledging my blessings either in prayer or writing them down in my journal. This gilded floral journal is so beautiful to write in. This practice will help you improve your mental well-being.
- The Power of Saying No: Establishing Boundaries
Learning to say no is a powerful act of self-preservation. Establishing boundaries allows you to prioritize your well-being and focus on what truly matters. Saying no liberates you from unnecessary commitments, creating space for the pursuit of meaningful goals. I have often said no to even fun experiences because I needed to honor my energy and mental well-being by resting or simply enjoying my own company.
- Not Caring What Others Think: Authenticity Over Approval
As women over 40, embracing authenticity becomes paramount. Release the need for external validation and live authentically. True happiness stems from staying true to yourself, irrespective of societal expectations or opinions. This is something that I have been working on all of my life and has become more important now than ever. Life is too short to not live it for yourself. It’s your life and no one needs an explanation from you or reason why you chose or feel something. Your opinion and feelings are enough and you don’t need to seek it outside of yourself.
- Create a Support Team: Building a Circle of Empowerment
Surround yourself with a supportive network that uplifts and empowers you. A strong support team is instrumental in helping you navigate challenges and celebrate victories. Share your intentions with those who genuinely want to see you succeed. Be selective of who you choose to be a part of your life. There is a saying that you are a reflection of the 5 closest people in your life. Choose people who love and support you and are by your side through good and bad times.
- Don’t Seek Validation from Others: Empowering Self-Validation
While external support is valuable, true empowerment comes from within. Seek validation from yourself by acknowledging your achievements and embracing your worth. Trust your instincts and celebrate your unique journey. I know I mentioned it before at point #4 but I must mention it again. Stop seeking validation from others and getting permission to do what you want in your life. In my culture, we are taught to honor our parents and elders which is a good thing. However, there were many times were boundaries were blurred and my decisions were not respected and I learned to stand up for my beliefs and individuality.
New Year’s Eve outfit ideas: c/o JUSTFAB sequin wrap midi dress | another great sequin wrap midi dress I glitter envelope clutch | this sparkling evening bag is pretty too | similar bow gold dangle earrings | love these gold rhinestone bow earrings too | Halston Heritage Margo Half d’Orsay Gold Leather Stilettos | Gold Leather Pumps | Gold Strappy Heels
- Learn Something New: Embracing Continuous Growth
Cultivate a mindset of lifelong learning. Set the intention to acquire new skills or explore uncharted territories. This commitment to personal growth keeps the mind active and opens doors to new opportunities. This mindset has helped me so much with being flexible in life. Live life with child-like curiosity and don’t be scared to try something new. Starting my YouTube channel was something so scary and intimidating for me. However, it was a calling I long ignored and I am so glad I overcame my fear. I had to learn to speak on camera, set up camera equipment, learn editing software, etc., It is still a learning process and keeps me on my feet and curious.
- Buy Things You Only Need: Simplifying Life
In a world driven by consumerism, adopting a minimalist approach can be transformative. Prioritize purchases based on necessity rather than impulse. Simplifying your life can lead to financial freedom and a sense of contentment. This one is hard as I love fashion! As of recently, I have been very intentional with purchasing items that last and are timeless. My daughters and I also enjoy thrifting which allows us to find unique pieces that are more than often better quality. Second-hand shopping is the best! I have been wanting to buy a nice luxury leather wallet for my favorite leather handbag and finally found this one by Prada in Barbie Pink. I love it so much and saved so much money buying it pre-loved. It was still in great condition and a sustainable luxury item.
- Don’t Do Crash Diets: Prioritizing Sustainable Health
Instead of succumbing to quick fixes, focus on cultivating a sustainable and healthy lifestyle. Setting intentions for long-term well-being involves making conscious choices regarding nutrition and exercise. I am the queen of diets and I have tried about everything. I realize that a balanced diet is right for me and allows me to nourish myself properly without having to deprive myself of things that I enjoy as well. What has also been helpful for me is meal prepping and these extra-thick meal prep containers are great. For those, who prefer a non-plastic option these glass meal prep containers are fab.
- Prioritize Exercise: Nurturing Physical Well-being
Physical health is a cornerstone of overall well-being. Set the intention to prioritize regular exercise, not just for physical fitness but also for mental clarity and emotional balance. My mom introduced me to exercise by being her gym buddy as a teen. Now, as a woman in her 40s, exercising is a non-negotiable and has helped me stay fit, and healthy and relieve stress. Find something that you love and just do it. I can’t live without my Apple watch. It is so fun to monitor my daily step count and share my progress with my husband.
- Remove Toxic People and Situations: Clearing Emotional Clutter
Creating a space for positive growth requires eliminating toxic influences. Identify and distance yourself from relationships and situations that drain your energy. Surround yourself with positivity to foster personal and emotional well-being. Need I say more? You deserve joy and peace in your life. Take out what you don’t need and don’t feel guilty for a minute!
- Get Finances In Order: Building Financial Stability
Financial stability is a key component of a well-rounded life. Set intentions to budget wisely, save, and invest for the future. Establishing financial goals can provide a sense of security and peace of mind. I am learning to budget better and love listening to podcasts about financial matters. I only wish I had devoted more time to this in my younger years. As a business owner, I have to be mindful of my expenses (and grateful my husband is my finance guru), and using Turbo Tax software helped prepare business taxes easily.
- Don’t Overwhelm Yourself: Be Realistic With Daily Goals
Avoid setting unrealistic expectations that lead to stress and burnout. Be mindful of your daily capacities and set achievable goals. This approach ensures a more balanced and sustainable lifestyle. Oh, boy, did I have to learn this the hard way. I used to set up my daily schedule with a task for each hour not allowing any time to relax. I felt that “relaxing” was lazy. Now, I know not to overburden myself with too many appointments and activities and save time for downtime.
- Develop Perseverance: Navigating Challenges with Grace
Life is filled with ups and downs. Set the intention to face challenges with resilience and perseverance. Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth and learn to navigate them with grace. We are in it for the long haul in the game of life. Develop internal grit by facing life’s challenges. You are a lot stronger than you think. Also, be gentle with yourself when you have made a mistake, and don’t doubt how amazing and powerful you are.
- Don’t Fear Failure: Embracing Growth Through Setbacks
Failure is a natural part of life. Instead of fearing it, view failure as a stepping stone toward growth. Set the intention to learn from setbacks, adapting and evolving in the process. I am so glad I am past the mindset that failure is bad luck or a reflection of myself. Recently I just opened Baby Emi Jewelry again after closing it for quite some time. I have made many mistakes along the way as a business owner but I won’t let it define who I am and what I am passionate about. Failure as mentioned earlier is a natural part of life. It happens and when it does commend yourself for trying! It is learning from the past that truly matters and shapes you into the amazing babe you are today.
- Social Detox Is Necessary for Peace: Digital Well-being Matters
In the age of constant connectivity, take time for a social detox. Set boundaries for screen time, unplug, and engage in activities that foster genuine connections. Prioritize quality over quantity in your social interactions. This is my first blog in two months and I haven’t posted on my Instagram for a while too. I needed this time to unplug to better focus on my health, my family, and the holiday season. There is a time for everything and there is only one me. Don’t fear FOMO with a digital detox.
- Unwind Everyday: Prioritizing Self-Care
Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Set aside time daily to unwind and recharge. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or practicing mindfulness, prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Skincare is so important to me and taking care of it is one of my favorite ways to love myself. I enjoy using my nuFACE device which is a microcurrent skin-care device and regimen that allows you to customize treatments to sculpt and smooth your face. And, these undereye gel eyepatches from VIIcode are an easy and effective way to reduce wrinkles, eye bags, puffiness, and dark circles.
- Forgive Yourself: Embracing Imperfection
Forgive yourself for past mistakes and imperfections. Setting the intention to let go of self-judgment allows room for personal growth and self-compassion. I have always been drawn to people who have had imperfect lives and are living examples of rising above their undesirable life circumstances or upbringing. And also find that the most attractive and interesting people are people with “imperfections” either self-imposed or by current Hollywood standards. I used to be bothered by my beauty marks and freckles but now I even highlight them by using a brow-defining pencil. Learn to relax embrace your imperfections and release the guilt from past mistakes. This mindset will help you with gaining confidence and peace about your path and purpose.
- Don’t Take Things Personally: Detaching from Negativity
Not everything is a reflection of you. Set the intention to detach from negativity and not take things personally. This mindset shift can lead to increased emotional resilience and inner peace. This one was a hard one for me to embrace and I am still working on it. I have no sense of humor! Haha. It could be from learning as a girl to step up and help my mom when she became a single mom who also knew little English at the time. I was thrust into the adult world a lot sooner than I wanted helping her navigate our new world. Life felt serious. Thankfully, my husband makes me laugh, and laughing at myself is okay….there is no need to be perfect. Laughter is the best form of medicine.
- Explore and Be Curious Mindset: Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Embrace a mindset of curiosity and exploration. Set intentions to try new things, travel to new places and embrace the unknown. Cultivating a growth mindset opens doors to endless possibilities. I am so excited about this part. The world is a beautiful place and there is so much to learn from others and different experiences to experience! Don’t hold yourself back and even think that you may know it all (cuz, sorry honey, you don’t). Growth minset is life. Even taking a different route to home or the grocery store is a form of having a curious mindset. The world is your oyster.
Setting intentions for the new year is not about imposing rigid rules but rather about creating a roadmap for a more intentional and fulfilling life. As women over 40, the journey is unique, filled with diverse experiences that shape our perspectives. Embrace the power of intention, cultivate a mindset of growth, and navigate through life with authenticity and grace. May the coming year be a canvas for meaningful change and alignment as you embark on this journey of intentional living.
Leave a comment before on what your thoughts are on goal setting for the new year as a woman over 40. I hope this post was insightful and thought-provoking. I would love to hear from you.